A baby girl discovered on the Welsh coastline may have been in the water for several weeks, according to police. Officers are continuing their search for the mother following the discovery of the infant by a member of the public in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday afternoon.
Post-mortem findings
A post-mortem examination confirmed the baby was female, with early findings suggesting she could have been in the water for up to a few weeks, a North Wales Police spokesman said. Further testing is currently being carried out by the force.
Appeal to the mother
Superintendent Llinos Davies stated: "We understand that the mother may be fearful of coming forward but we urge her to make contact with us. I'd like to reassure her that her welfare and safety is our utmost concern."
"Anyone with concerns about a girl or a woman you think may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months, including withdrawing from friends, family or social ties, please contact us. Please do the right thing to ensure this mother gets the health support she needs. All names received will be treated with the utmost discretion and can be eliminated as the mother without delay."
"I understand that this is a terribly sad incident for the community and I am grateful for the overwhelming support and assistance that we have received so far."
Ongoing enquiries
Investigators are believed to be keeping all options open regarding where the infant entered the water and are consulting oceanographers about tidal patterns. Door-to-door enquiries are ongoing in the area where the body was discovered.
A force spokesman confirmed that following an earlier appeal this week, numerous calls have come in from the public. Police stressed that all calls would be treated seriously.
Health board message
Speaking directly to the mother, Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and woman's service for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: "You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone. We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death, but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need. I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
Those with information can contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Information can also be submitted via a public portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/60NWP26G07-PO1.
